
UC TEAMS Brings the World Into the Classroom Through Mandarin and Integrated Arts
Maria Torres · Union County Life
Students at UC TEAMS Charter School in Plainfield will begin studying Mandarin in September through an expanded Integrated Arts curriculum. The school brings live instruction directly from a Mandarin educator located in China into the Plainfield classroom.
This daily connection pairs language acquisition with studies in Chinese art, traditions, geography, music, storytelling, and contemporary life. Union County Life notes that this approach helps young learners in Plainfield hear authentic tones, practice live speaking, and receive immediate feedback from someone embedded in the culture.
Younger scholars receive a foundational introduction to Mandarin and Chinese culture through the arts. High school students build on prior cultural understanding with advanced live lessons to deepen their language proficiency. Instructors weave in Chinese calligraphy, architecture studies, and lunar celebration observations so scholars see daily life in China alongside their own experiences in Plainfield. UC TEAMS Charter School intends for these global connections to build empathy and intercultural awareness across all grade levels.
FAQ:
Q: Who provides the Mandarin instruction at UC TEAMS Charter School?
A: Live instruction comes directly from a Mandarin teacher located in China.
Q: Which grade levels participate in the new Mandarin program?
A: Younger scholars receive an introduction through Integrated Arts, while high school students deepen their language skills.
Q: What subjects are combined with language learning?
A: Students explore Chinese calligraphy, traditional art, Lunar New Year traditions, music, architecture, and contemporary daily life.
Related articles
EducationPlainfield Swears In Three Student Commissioners to School Board
Seniors from Pinnacle Academy, PAAAS and Plainfield High School were sworn in as Plainfield Board of Education student commissioners for 2026 to 2027.
EducationBerkeley Heights Seeks Educator of the Year Nominations by Oct. 23
Berkeley Heights Public Schools takes Governor's Educators of the Year nominations through Oct. 23. See who qualifies and how to nominate an educator.
EducationHarding Elementary Walk and Roll to School Day in Kenilworth
Harding Elementary students, parents and local leaders walked safely to school on Wednesday, Oct. 14, for the annual Walk and Roll to School Day in Kenilworth.
Get Union County news in your inbox
Subscribe for local headlines, town updates, and community stories from across Union County.
Sign up for the newsletter